Hope Solo Named Woman of Inspiration

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Hope Solo will be recognized for her efforts by the Phoenix Mercury on June 23.

Posted: May 30, 2012

The Phoenix Mercury will honor the world’s leading soccer goalkeeper, Hope Solo, as the team’s 2012 Woman of Inspiration during the June 23 matchup vs. Los Angeles at 6 p.m. The night will be dedicated to recognizing Solo’s accomplishments on the field as well as in the community, and will also mark the Mercury’s celebration of the 40th anniversary of Title IX.

Solo has been part of the U.S. National team since 2005 and her impact on the team was immediate as she started 7 matches, earning 7 shutouts. In 2006, she helped lead the team to a 14-0-4 season and in 2007, she started 15 games for a team record of 13-0-2.

She’s been part of the National Team at both the 2007 and 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cups and in 2008, Solo was part of the Olympic team that was triumphant in the showdown against Brazil, earning a shutout and the Gold Medal in a 1-0 extra time win.

“Each year, this award is presented to a woman who, by following her own dreams, is inspiring others to do the same. Hope has experienced a tremendous amount of success on and off the soccer field despite some tough setbacks in her life. We’re thrilled to honor her as this year’s Woman of Inspiration as a part of our celebration of the 40th anniversary of Title IX,” said Mercury President and COO Amber Cox.
Solo is the Mercury’s sixth Woman of Inspiration and now shares the title with Robin Roberts (2007), Ali Vincent, First Female Biggest Loser (2008), Jackie Joyner-Kersee (2009), Billie Jean King (2010) and Picabo Street (2011).

“It’s an honor to be among the company of so many women that have been inspirations to me,” said Solo. “The timing couldn’t be more perfect with the anniversary of Title IX because I know my life would be completely different right now if the law hadn’t passed and all of those women hadn’t opened these doors for me and my generation. All female athletes really deserve this honor for working together to come as far as we have.”

The Mercury is inviting everyone to be part of the celebration on June 23 along with Solo. By submitting a story on PhoenixMercury.com about how Title IX has benefitted you, a friend or family member, you will automatically receive a free ticket to the game and take part in an on-court recognition and group photo with Solo at halftime.